Ask the Expert – Concussion

What is a concussion, and what should I do if I think I have one?

A concussion is the most common type of mild traumatic brain injury. Specifically, it is a functional brain injury, meaning that you cannot see damage on an image of the brain, but it is there. Concussions can occur because of a direct hit to the head, or any injury that transmits forces to the brain. They can occur with or without a loss of consciousness, and may cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, forgetfulness or loss of memory. These signs and symptoms may be quite subtle, so it is important to notice any difficulties sleeping, slow reaction times or changes in personality.

It is important to have any potential concussions evaluated, because all concussions are different, and each person is affected differently. It is very important to have a personalized approach that focuses on thorough examination, education, and careful protocols to ensure adequate rest and recovery before returning to sport, work, or school. As chiropractors, we are trained in the assessment of concussions, and can also provide treatment for some of the signs and symptoms, or refer you to other medical professionals if needed.